With technological advancements rapidly moving, attempts have been made to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of various governments by establishing dedicated organisations to respond against threats in the present and the future. Although New Zealand already has intelligence agencies, the government plans to launch another intelligence agency to rapidly react and coordinate its actions against present and future threats, both domestic and perhaps foreign.
Government takes action
The Royal Commission, the authority that investigated the event of Christchurch Mosque attacks on March 2019, made recommendations for forming a new agency based on the reports it submitted and presented to the Parliament. The proposed agency is responsible for strategic intelligence and security leadership functions.
In June 2022, New Zealand Defence Minister Andrew Little stated that it was too early to do so but later announced the nation’s first national security system. Little added that such actions are committed to early action and coordinated approaches.
On August 5, the government announced that NISA would be a high authority than the Security Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Security Bureau but would not replace said organisations. In this role, NISA has a higher perspective to see and respond to new threats.
New Zealand security and intelligence structure
Currently, New Zealand has several established intelligence agencies. The Intelligence body of New Zealand is composed of the National Security Group (NSG), the National Assessments Bureau (NAB), the National Security Systems Directorate (NSSD), and the National Intelligence and Risk Coordination Directorate (NIRCD). Other intelligence agencies include the Government Communications Security Bureau, the Security Intelligence Service, a police-run special investigations group, and the military’s Directorate of Defence Intelligence and Security.
Questions have been raised concerning NISA regarding its relevance, oversight, and capability to coordinate with other agencies. Many point out that NISA’s function is taken from various intelligence agencies. Lastly, there were even questions about whether the formation of NISA will be continued as discussions are being made and the election comes closer.
In conclusion, technological advancements have significantly impacted many aspects of our society. Many side benefit from said developments, both the government and those that may have malicious intentions. As a response and adaptation to the ever-expanding and changing threats that are present and will be present in the future, the New Zealand Government opted to follow through with recommendations made in the past. Although questioned and critiqued, the formation of the NISA will be further steps toward adapting to a new and changing world.